unplanned

adjective

un·​planned ˌən-ˈpland How to pronounce unplanned (audio)
Synonyms of unplannednext
: not expected or intended : not planned
an unplanned detour
an unplanned pregnancy

Examples of unplanned in a Sentence

an unplanned change in our itinerary—we got lost! stumbled through a completely unplanned acceptance speech
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Strong, damaging winds and growing fire danger across Colorado’s lower elevations may cause thousands to lose power Tuesday, whether through planned or unplanned outages. Lauren Penington, Denver Post, 17 Feb. 2026 Following months of delays in implementing parking changes at Balboa Park, the city is adding free zones and unplanned discounts for residents and frequent users in hopes of reducing public backlash against its parking missteps. Jay Derr, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026 Of course, some of the best opportunities to experience the world's game will be unofficial and unplanned—from spontaneous pickup games to late-night football anthem sing-alongs. Hannah Towey, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Feb. 2026 The first bill, called the AV Safety Data Act, would require NHTSA to mandate AV vehicle data such as miles traveled, injuries involving human drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists and unplanned stoppages. Kathryn Watson, CBS News, 4 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unplanned

Word History

First Known Use

1775, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unplanned was in 1775

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unplanned.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unplanned. Accessed 19 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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